hassan
Slow Cooker Poor Man’s Stew is the perfect comfort meal for a budget-friendly dinner that doesn’t skimp on flavor. Made with simple ingredients like ground beef, potatoes, carrots, and a hearty tomato-based sauce, this stew is easy to put together and fills your home with a warm, inviting aroma. It’s ideal for those days when you need a filling meal but don’t have the time or budget for anything fancy. Let the slow cooker do all the work, and enjoy a hearty dish that your whole family will love.
Table of Contents
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef (or ground turkey)
- 4 medium potatoes, peeled and chopped
- 3 medium carrots, peeled and chopped
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes
- 2 cups beef broth
- 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- 1/2 tsp paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tbsp olive oil
Instructions
- Brown the Ground Beef: In a skillet over medium heat, add the olive oil. Once heated, add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it into small crumbles. Drain excess fat.
- Add to Slow Cooker: Transfer the browned ground beef to the slow cooker. Add the chopped potatoes, carrots, onion, and minced garlic.
- Add the Liquid and Seasonings: Pour in the diced tomatoes (with juice) and beef broth. Stir in the Worcestershire sauce, dried thyme, paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix until all ingredients are well combined.
- Cook: Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours, until the vegetables are tender and the flavors have melded together.
- Serve: Once cooked, give the stew a good stir and serve hot. Enjoy with crusty bread for a complete meal.
Tips for Perfect Poor Man’s Stew
- Browning the Beef: Browning the ground beef before adding it to the slow cooker adds a richer flavor to the stew. If you’re short on time, you can skip this step, but it’s highly recommended.
- Cut Vegetables Evenly: To ensure everything cooks evenly, chop the potatoes and carrots into similar-sized pieces.
- Adjust Seasonings: Feel free to adjust the seasonings to your liking. Adding a bay leaf during cooking can also enhance the flavor.
Recipe Variations
- Vegetarian Poor Man’s Stew: Replace the ground beef with lentils or kidney beans and use vegetable broth instead of beef broth for a hearty vegetarian version.
- Spicy Stew: Add a diced jalapeño or a pinch of red pepper flakes for a spicy kick.
- Add More Vegetables: Feel free to add other vegetables like peas, bell peppers, or corn to make the stew even more filling and nutritious.
FAQs
Q: Can I make Poor Man’s Stew on the stovetop instead of a slow cooker?
A: Yes, you can make this stew on the stovetop. Brown the ground beef in a large pot, add the rest of the ingredients, bring to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer for 1-2 hours, or until the vegetables are tender.
Q: How do I store leftovers?
A: Store leftover stew in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a pot on the stovetop or in the microwave until heated through.
Q: Can I freeze Poor Man’s Stew?
A: Yes, this stew freezes well. Allow it to cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container. Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
Slow Cooker Poor Man’s Stew is a simple, comforting dish that makes mealtime easy and delicious. With affordable ingredients and minimal prep, it’s a great option for those busy weekdays when you need something hearty and satisfying. Whether you’re feeding a family or meal prepping for the week, this stew is sure to become a favorite go-to recipe. Enjoy the rich flavors and warmth that only a classic homemade stew can bring!
